After a decade of sideways Formula Drift is running stronger than ever. 2014 holds an even bigger year than ever before with the addition of Japan. They are expanding its tour to the land of the rising sun, where the very art of drifting was discovered. Two Formula Drift Japan competitions will be held next year before championship rounds set for 2015. One of points round will come from the Formula Drift Asia Championship. A minimum of four events including a championship round is planned for 2015 and 2016.

Whether or not you agree with the U.S. Formula Drift judges they were chosen for their expertise and knowledge. For the brand new series, two more people were enlisted: Japanese motorsports icons Nobutero Taniguchi and Max Orido.

"It's very exciting to be taking our brand to the birthplace of drifting with MSC. MSC is a reputable company that has been involved in drifting for many years. We feel that this is a great way to expand our brand as it fits with our global aspirations," said Jim Liaw, president and co-founder of Formula Drift.

Next year will mark the beginning of a three-year deal with Formula Drift and MSC Co, LTD. MSC has been hosting drift events in Asian for years now.

"MSC has been a long time partner with Formula Drift since its start and we are thrilled to be working with the global brand of drifting in Japan. With the support of the new generation media networks, we are aimed to grow as spectacular motorsports events. Please look forward to our events," said Kaz Iwata, founder of MSC Co, Ltd.

Formula Drift is returning to its roots in Japan and we couldn't be more excited. More details of Formula Drift Japan will be announced at the 2014 Osaka Auto Messe in February 2014.

For those suffering from drifting withdrawals after the epic Formula D season finale, the guys at Just Drift had just the solution with the annual All Star Bash at Willow Springs Raceway this past Saturday and Sunday.